When Should I Repot a Plant?

Repotting can feel intimidating if you've never done it, but your plant will usually tell you when it's time — you just have to know what to look for.

The Clearest Signs

There are three main signals that a plant has outgrown its pot:

• Roots coming out of the bottom. If you see roots poking through the drainage holes, the plant has run out of room to grow underground.

• The plant and pot are physically unbalanced. If the plant has grown so top-heavy that the pot can no longer hold it upright, that's a pretty clear cue it needs a sturdier, larger home.

• Compacted soil that no longer absorbs water. Over time, soil breaks down and compacts. When it gets dense enough, water starts running straight through the pot rather than soaking in — a sign the soil (and often the pot) needs refreshing.

What Repotting Actually Involves

Repotting doesn't necessarily mean a dramatically bigger pot. Sizing up by just one or two inches in diameter is usually enough — a pot that's too large can hold excess moisture and lead to root rot. You'll also want to use fresh potting mix rather than reusing old, compacted soil, since fresh soil restores the aeration and nutrients your plant needs.

When to Avoid It

Repotting is a bit of a stressor for a plant, so it's best done when the plant is actively growing (typically spring or summer) rather than during dormancy. It's also worth holding off if a plant is already stressed from pests, disease, or recent relocation — give it time to stabilize first.

What to Remember

You don't need to repot on a fixed schedule. Let the plant's actual condition — roots, balance, and soil — guide the timing instead.

Not sure if your plant needs a new pot? Bring it in (or a photo) and we'll take a look.